Category: Gaming

  • Techland to Release Hotfix for Dying Light: The Beast’s QTE Issues

    Techland to Release Hotfix for Dying Light: The Beast’s QTE Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Return of Kyle Crane: Dying Light: The Beast brings back Kyle Crane in the new setting of Castor Woods, marking a return to the series’ origins.

    2. Frustrating Biter Mechanic: Biters can catch players regardless of their speed or progress, leading to mandatory QTE sections unless players are equipped with throwing knives.

    3. Developer Acknowledgment: Techland recognizes the issue with biters and plans to adjust their mechanics based on community feedback to maintain challenge while ensuring fairness.

    4. Upcoming Hotfix: A hotfix will soon be released, providing players with more time to escape biters, clearer warning signals for lunging attacks, and reduced grab assaults from alerted biters.

    5. Ongoing Community Engagement: Techland continues to gather player feedback to improve the game experience and address concerns effectively.

    Techland’s Dying Light: The Beast marks a strong return to the series’ origins with Kyle Crane making a comeback in the new setting of Castor Woods. The thrilling night cycles filled with alert volatiles have kept players on alert; however, one infected type has left many frustrated as they try to navigate the woods at lightning speed. This annoyance arises from the game’s biters.

    Biters’ Grabbing Mechanic

    In Dying Light: The Beast, biters can catch you no matter how fast you move, how far you’ve progressed, or the area’s difficulty level. This results in players being thrown into a mandatory QTE section unless they have throwing knives handy.

    Techland acknowledged that the infected are more formidable this time, but there was no prior warning about the unavoidable biter QTEs. In response to community input, Techland has announced plans to adjust the overzealous biters, as discussed in a developer update video released over the weekend.

    Addressing Player Concerns

    Game Director Nathan Lemaire spoke directly to fans, confirming the issue and emphasizing that Techland wants to keep the game’s challenge while adding some fairness. Lemaire shared:

    “I’d like to discuss our biters today. As you know, their main instinct is to grab you, and while we intend to keep their aggressiveness, we also want to ensure fairness in that aspect.”

    The fixes will be rolled out in an upcoming hotfix. The team is currently testing it to ensure it meets their quality standards, and they will continue to gather player feedback. Lemaire concluded, “Thank you for playing, and we’ll see you in Castor Woods.”

    Upcoming Hotfix Details

    Techland plans to release a hotfix soon after completing internal testing. This update will bring three main changes. First, survivors will receive an extra moment to escape a biter’s grasp before suffering damage.

    Secondly, biters that lunge at players will have clearer warning signs through modified startup animations. Lastly, biters that are alerted will be less inclined to perform a grab assault, which will lower the chances of a QTE ambush while exploring Castor Woods.

    Dying Light: The Beast Dev Update.

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  • Asus Launches ROG Gaming Laptop Updates for Performance Fixes

    Asus Launches ROG Gaming Laptop Updates for Performance Fixes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus is addressing stuttering and performance issues in certain ROG gaming laptops after community feedback.
    2. An independent review reveals that ROG Scar, ROG Strix, and ROG Zephyrus models from 2021 onward share performance problems due to poorly designed ACPI firmware.
    3. TUF Gaming laptops, like the TUF Gaming A14, are not affected by these performance issues, despite using similar components.
    4. Asus has provided fixes only for the ROG Strix Scar 15 and the Zephyrus M16, both released in 2023.
    5. BIOS updates to fix the issues are currently in beta, with more updates expected soon, but no specific timelines have been shared.

    Asus has taken steps to tackle the ‘stuttering and performance interruptions’ that have been reported in certain ROG gaming laptops. The company acknowledged receiving feedback from the community about these problems nearly two weeks ago.

    Investigation Findings

    In a recent independent review, Linus Sebastian highlights that ROG Scar, ROG Strix, and ROG Zephyrus gaming laptops made from 2021 onward are experiencing similar performance problems, no matter their specifications. The root cause of these issues is linked to poorly designed ACPI firmware, which does not efficiently manage APUs or CPUs, leading to increased latency.

    Unaffected Models

    According to the detailed technical investigation, TUF Gaming laptops, such as the TUF Gaming A14, seem to be unaffected by these issues, despite using many of the same components found in ROG Scar, ROG Strix, or ROG Zephyrus models. Currently, the TUF Gaming A14 is priced at $1,749 on Amazon. The tweet below points out that Asus has only provided fixes for the ROG Strix Scar 15 (G533ZW) and the Zephyrus M16 (GU604VI), both of which were released in 2023.

    Future Updates

    Asus has indicated that the available BIOS updates are still in beta. It is likely that more fixes for other laptop models will come soon, but unfortunately, Asus has not shared any specific timelines for these updates. For further information on the ACPI firmware issue, please refer to the Asus gaming laptop technical investigation.

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  • Scalpers List ROG Ally Xbox Prices Soar to $2500 After Sellout

    Scalpers List ROG Ally Xbox Prices Soar to $2500 After Sellout

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pre-orders for the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X have begun, but prices are higher than expected, with the ROG Xbox Ally X priced at $999.99.
    2. The ROG Xbox Ally X has become more popular than the standard Xbox Ally, leading to quick sellouts on platforms like the Microsoft Store and Asus eShop.
    3. Availability of the handhelds is inconsistent globally, with stock shortages prompting questions about demand versus supply constraints.
    4. Scalpers are taking advantage of the situation, with some listings on eBay reaching prices as high as $2,500.
    5. The official release date is set for October 16th, and Microsoft plans to expand its Xbox experience to other devices by 2026.

    After much anticipation, pre-orders for the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X have begun. Unfortunately for customers in the U.S., the prices for these gaming handhelds are higher than what was previously reported. The ROG Xbox Ally X is priced at $999.99, and retailers are having a tough time meeting demand. Scalpers are taking advantage of the situation, with some listings on eBay reaching up to $2,500.

    Popularity of the ROG Xbox Ally X

    Currently, the ROG Xbox Ally X featuring the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor has gained more attention compared to the $599.99 Xbox Ally. On September 26th, the official Xbox social media account announced that the device was sold out on the Microsoft Store. Since that announcement, the handheld has also disappeared from the Asus eShop. It seems that most of the available stock may have been allocated to Best Buy, which continues to accept pre-orders for the device.

    Availability Issues

    The global availability of these handhelds is quite inconsistent. For example, the Windows 11 handheld is sold out on the Asus UK store, but it remains available in France. Gamers are questioning whether the high demand is real or if the low stock levels are causing the shortages. The buzz surrounding the Lenovo Legion Go 2, which features an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme variant, has even led to the cancellation of some pre-orders by the manufacturer.

    Despite the possibility of these shortages being artificially inflated, scalpers are still asking for high prices for the ROG Xbox Ally X. While most gamers may hesitate to pay $2,500, eBay has seen some transactions in its U.S. marketplace, including one where a buyer paid $1,775 to secure the device.

    Shipping and Release Date

    eBay permits sellers to offer ROG Xbox Ally X pre-orders as long as they can dispatch the product within 40 days of the order date. Gamers will need to wait for the release on October 16th to see how it compares against other options in the market.

    Even though the gaming handheld provides a convenient means to access Game Pass and various marketplaces, its advantages may be fleeting. Microsoft has plans to expand its Xbox full-screen experience to other devices, such as the MSI Claw A8 and Lenovo Legion Go 2, by 2026.

    Scalpers List ROG Ally Xbox Prices Soar to $2500 After Sellout

     

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  • Hades II Review: Captivating Sequel First Impressions

    Hades II Review: Captivating Sequel First Impressions

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hades II features a new storyline where players control Melinoë, Zagreus’s sister, as she battles the Titan Chronos.
    2. The game maintains familiar mechanics from the first installment while introducing improvements, such as new Night weapons and enhanced combat abilities.
    3. Players collect more resources for activities like Alchemy and Incantations, with a new Arcana system replacing the Mirror of Night.
    4. Familiar faces from the first game are mostly absent, and the setting includes a hidden area called the Crossroads.
    5. The game is designed for both seasoned players and newcomers, offering a complete experience in its 1.0 launch.

    Hades II has finally made its debut, and if you’re like me, you held off until its 1.0 launch to start exploring this much-awaited sequel. I couldn’t stand the idea of being left hanging while it was still in development!

    New Adventures Await

    With the arrival of version 1.0, players are introduced to a fresh story along with a revamped system layered on top of the beloved mechanics from the first game. In this piece, we will explore what’s old, what’s new, and how the gameplay compares to its predecessor.

    Spoiler Alert!

    There are minor spoilers ahead, so be warned! While we won’t reveal any minibosses or the first area’s boss, we will discuss gameplay mechanics and Melinoë’s objectives in this narrative. Additionally, we will highlight some NPCs that players will encounter in the game’s main area.

    Plot Overview

    The storyline of Hades II is quite simple: the Titan Chronos has broken free from his confinement in Tartarus and has captured Melinoë’s family as he takes control of the House of Hades. This time, players take on the role of Melinoë, Zagreus’s younger sister, who fights with new Night weapons instead of the Infernal Arms. Her mentor, Hecate, has played a significant role in her training, preparing her for the day she will confront Chronos. The plot weaves in themes of witchcraft, which are echoed in the gameplay, a topic we will touch on shortly.

    Due to Chronos’s takeover, the inhabitants of the Underworld have retreated to a hidden area called the Crossroads, situated between the Surface and the Underworld. Melinoë’s quest is the opposite of Zagreus’s journey in the previous title; she must descend into Tartarus and reach the House of Hades to thwart Chronos and his conflict against Olympus. From what I’ve seen in my initial hours of play, many familiar faces from the first game seem to be missing in this sequel.

    Gameplay Mechanics

    The core system and mechanics of Hades II remain similar yet improved, with many elements carried over from the prior installment – such as the Pom of Power, Daedalic Hammer, Centaur Heart, and more. However, this time around, players collect more resources, especially those associated with the Cauldron, enabling activities like Alchemy and Incantations.

    Combat has also been enhanced in the sequel, featuring Ω versions of your Cast, Attack, and Special, which utilize a new Mana bar to unleash stronger abilities. Your weapons are no longer the Infernal Arms but are now referred to as Nocturnal Arms, which you can unlock in an area called the Silver Pool. Furthermore, the Mirror of Night has been replaced with a new system known as Arcana, where players unlock various cards to assist them on their adventure, resembling tarot cards.

    Final Thoughts

    Navigating the Underworld in Hades II remains a challenging endeavor. I barely managed to beat the boss on my last run while gathering the visuals for this article. So far, seasoned players likely won’t struggle too much with this sequel, whereas newcomers can still dive into Hades II, enjoying all its content in this complete 1.0 version.

    Overall, the story and gameplay are just as captivating, if not more so, in this sequel. If you enjoyed Hades, there’s not much to dislike about Hades II. I do worry that the material gathering could become monotonous as the game progresses, but for now, it serves the narrative and gameplay well. I’ll leave you with this thought as I dive back into this fantastic sequel: Death to Chronos!

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    Hades II Review: Captivating Sequel First ImpressionsHades II Review: Captivating Sequel First ImpressionsHades II Review: Captivating Sequel First ImpressionsHades II Review: Captivating Sequel First ImpressionsHades II Review: Captivating Sequel First ImpressionsHades II Review: Captivating Sequel First ImpressionsHades II Review: Captivating Sequel First Impressions

     

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  • Corsair Vanguard 96: The Ultimate Keyboard and Stream Deck Hybrid

    Corsair Vanguard 96: The Ultimate Keyboard and Stream Deck Hybrid

    Key Takeaways

    1. Stream Deck Integration: The Corsair Vanguard 96 series features six programmable G-keys for seamless Stream Deck integration, making it ideal for streamers.

    2. Compact Design: Both keyboards have a 96% layout that includes essential keys while remaining compact, along with a detachable memory foam cushion and USB connectivity.

    3. Advanced Pro Features: The Vanguard 96 Pro includes Hall effect technology and hotswappable magnetic switches, allowing customizable actuation points for enhanced gameplay.

    4. High Customization and Performance: The keyboards offer 40 actuation intervals and a rapid 8 kHz polling rate, enhancing responsiveness for gamers.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The Vanguard 96 Pro is priced at $220, while the non-pro version costs $179.99, both set to be available on October 11th.

    It’s rare to find a gaming keyboard that also serves as a streaming hub, yet Corsair’s new keyboard series aims to achieve that goal. The Corsair Vanguard 96 and Vanguard 96 Pro come with six programmable G-keys on the side, offering Stream Deck integration at a hardware level. This feature positions the keyboard as the perfect command centre for any streamer.

    Compact Design with Full Features

    Both keyboards in the Vanguard 96 range sport a 96% alphanumeric layout, including F-keys, arrow keys, and a numpad. They still manage to fit in a rotary dial and a mini 1.9-inch full-colour LCD, all while maintaining the compact size of a tenkeyless keyboard. The devices come with a detachable memory foam cushion and connect through USB 3.0 or 3.1 type A.

    Advanced Features in the Pro Model

    The Vanguard 96 Pro, which costs more than the standard model, is equipped with Hall effect technology and features hotswappable magnetic switches. Thanks to Corsair’s own MGX hyperdrive technology, gamers can set up secondary actuation points for added functionality on each key. For instance, pressing W in many FPS games usually means “walk,” but a deeper press can be configured to trigger a sprint, mimicking the pressure-sensitive triggers found on game controllers.

    Customization and Performance

    Customization of these actuation points is highly accurate, offering 40 distinct intervals ranging from 0.1mm to 40mm, while Rapid Trigger tech reduces the lag between multiple keystrokes. Corsair boasts an impressive 8 kHz polling rate on both keyboards. Even more affordable mechanical keyboards, like the KeyChron C1 Pro, are now seeking to match this high standard.

    The set of G-keys on the keyboard represents Corsair’s latest effort to embed an Elgato stream deck directly into the keyboard. While the last attempt was a humorous 1262-key April Fool’s prank, this version seems legitimate.

    All-in-One Control Center

    Corsair is promoting the Vanguard 96 keyboards as a comprehensive control centre for both gamers and streamers, and they have done so in a clever manner. The placement of the G-keys helps prevent accidental macro launches, overlay triggers, or unwanted RGB lighting changes. Streamers can configure these keys using Corsair’s iCUE or Web Hub.

    In addition to the six G-keys, there is also a button that opens Virtual Stream Decks, enabling unlimited virtual panels, each with up to 64 programmable hotkeys.

    Pricing and Availability

    At a price of $220, the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s difficult to label it as overpriced. The sleek aluminum frame, four layers of sound-dampening foam, and the leatherette finish of the memory foam wrist rest give the keyboard a luxurious feel.

    For those who prefer to skip the Hall effect keys and the associated multi-actuation, Corsair offers the non-pro Vanguard 96 with pre-lubed MLX mechanical switches for $179.99.

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    Corsair Vanguard 96: The Ultimate Keyboard and Stream Deck HybridCorsair Vanguard 96: The Ultimate Keyboard and Stream Deck HybridCorsair Vanguard 96: The Ultimate Keyboard and Stream Deck HybridCorsair Vanguard 96: The Ultimate Keyboard and Stream Deck HybridCorsair Vanguard 96: The Ultimate Keyboard and Stream Deck HybridCorsair Vanguard 96: The Ultimate Keyboard and Stream Deck Hybrid

     

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  • Asus ROG Raikiri II Wireless Controller Price Leak Revealed

    Asus ROG Raikiri II Wireless Controller Price Leak Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus and Microsoft are taking pre-orders for the ROG Xbox Ally X and the ROG Xbox Ally, priced at $599.99 on Amazon.
    2. Microsoft has launched official accessories for Asus’ new gaming handhelds.
    3. Sales for the ROG Raikiri II wireless controller have not started yet, despite its recent reveal at Gamescom 2025.
    4. A leaker predicts a launch price of $189.99 for the new ROG Raikiri II controller, marking a 26% increase from the previous model.
    5. The timeline for pre-orders of the ROG Raikiri II controller is currently uncertain.

    Asus and Microsoft have begun taking pre-orders for the ROG Xbox Ally X and the more affordable ROG Xbox Ally, which is currently priced at $599.99 on Amazon. In addition, Microsoft has recently introduced official accessories designed for Asus’ new gaming handhelds. Curiously, sales for the ROG Raikiri II wireless controller, which was officially revealed last month at Gamescom 2025, have not yet commenced.

    Pricing Expectations

    In the meantime, billbil-kun has leaked some pricing predictions for Asus’ upcoming wireless controller. To summarize, the leaker had previously anticipated that Asus would eventually roll out a Pro version of the ROG Raikiri II, similar to the earlier Raikiri and Raikiri Pro models. However, it seems that this might not be happening right away, at least not as initially thought.

    Launch Pricing Details

    Instead, billbil-kun now claims that Asus has decided on a launch price of $189.99 for the new controller in the US. For reference, this price is a 26% hike compared to the ROG Raikiri Pro, which comes with extra features like a 1.3-inch OLED display. Unfortunately, the timeline for when the ROG Raikiri II will be available for pre-order remains uncertain. For more details, refer to our launch article covering Asus’ latest wireless controller.

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    Asus ROG Raikiri II Wireless Controller Price Leak Revealed

     

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  • Deadly One-Armed Bandit: Balatro-Like Roguelike Hits 96% Positive Reviews

    Deadly One-Armed Bandit: Balatro-Like Roguelike Hits 96% Positive Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. CloverPit offers a unique roguelike experience, combining card game mechanics with a slot machine and a dark environment.
    2. Players must settle debts to survive; failing to deposit enough money leads to dire consequences.
    3. The game features over 150 items, talismans, and upgrades that influence slot machine outcomes and player strategies.
    4. Steam reviews highlight the enjoyment of experimenting with different setups for higher scores, making the game highly addictive.
    5. CloverPit launched on September 26, received positive feedback from users, and is currently available at a discounted price on Steam.

    Roguelike card games such as Balatro and Luck be a Landlord have gained a loyal following due to their engaging mechanics. If you’re looking for something new in this genre, CloverPit offers a unique experience. Unlike traditional card games, it immerses you in a dark environment where your fortune is determined by luck. You find yourself in a small, poorly lit room featuring a slot machine and an ATM.

    The Stakes of CloverPit

    In CloverPit, your survival depends on settling your debts – if you don’t deposit enough money after a game session, the floor beneath you opens up, leading to a horrific demise. This game puts a new spin on the roguelike concept. In contrast to Balatro, where luck is determined by card draws, your fate here relies on the slot machine lever. However, players do have some control over outcomes: there are more than 150 items, talismans, and upgrades that can be unlocked, giving you more influence with every attempt.

    The Importance of Items

    At the heart of CloverPit are the items. They alter how the slot machine functions or affect how specific symbols behave. Some items boost certain combinations, while others improve the chances of hitting rare patterns or set off chain reactions that can lead to huge rewards. Steam users have noted that the real charm of the game lies in trying out various setups and striving for higher scores, which makes it exceedingly difficult to stop playing.

    Launch Details

    CloverPit has been in demo form since April and officially debuted on Steam on September 26. It has quickly gathered over 1,000 reviews, boasting an impressive 96% positive feedback. There’s a 10% launch discount available until October 10, bringing the cost down to $9. Additionally, the game is marked as “Verified” for Steam Deck (which is currently around $480 on Amazon), making it an excellent choice for gaming on the go.

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    Deadly One-Armed Bandit: Balatro-Like Roguelike Hits 96% Positive ReviewsDeadly One-Armed Bandit: Balatro-Like Roguelike Hits 96% Positive Reviews

     

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  • Free Playtest of Promising New Soulslike Game

    Free Playtest of Promising New Soulslike Game

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valor Mortis is a promising new Soulslike game from One More Level, known for the Ghostrunner series.
    2. The storyline follows William, a resurrected soldier in a monster-infested Europe, who gains supernatural powers at a cost.
    3. The game features classic Soulslike combat with an innovative first-person perspective and unique “transmutations” abilities.
    4. Each use of William’s powers risks increasing his corruption, adding a strategic element to gameplay.
    5. Valor Mortis will be released in 2026, with a playtest available from October 6 to 13 for interested players.

    Since the release of Lies of P, there hasn’t been a notable Soulslike game that has drawn significant interest. However, this may change with Valor Mortis, a new game from the Polish developer One More Level, who are well-known for the Ghostrunner series. Gamers who enjoy Dark Souls, Nioh, or Mortal Shell might find something unique here. Insider Gaming suggests that this title could be “the most promising Soulslike in years.”

    A Unique Storyline

    The plot revolves around William, a former soldier in the Grande Armée who suddenly wakes up in a mass grave. He discovers a ruined Europe where most people have been killed and transformed into monsters by a substance named Nephtoglobin. Unlike them, William is not the same; the same substance that ended his life also resurrected him, giving him supernatural powers, though at a cost, as it gradually corrupts him from the inside.

    Classic Combat with a Twist

    Valor Mortis adheres to the core principles of the Soulslike genre—intense combat where every action counts, and timing, blocking, and dodging are all vital. However, it introduces an innovative first-person perspective that adds a new dimension to the gameplay. William’s supernatural abilities are referred to as “transmutations,” allowing him to use his life force to improve his attacks or unleash powerful abilities. The downside is that each use contributes to the corruption within him. If he overexerts himself, he risks losing control and becoming the very monster he is battling.

    Upcoming Release and Playtest

    Valor Mortis is set to be released in 2026, but a playtest is scheduled from October 6 to 13. Players who are interested in an early experience can register by submitting their email on the official website. Those wishing to receive updates can already add the game to their wishlist on Steam.

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    Free Playtest of Promising New Soulslike GameFree Playtest of Promising New Soulslike Game

     

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  • Forza Horizon 6 in Japan: PS5 Players Must Wait, Says Microsoft

    Forza Horizon 6 in Japan: PS5 Players Must Wait, Says Microsoft

    Key Takeaways

    1. Setting Announcement: Forza Horizon 6 will be set in Japan, as confirmed by Microsoft during the Tokyo Game Show 2025.
    2. Platform Availability: The game will launch in 2026 exclusively on Xbox consoles and PC, with a later release planned for PlayStation 5.
    3. Timed-Exclusive Release: Analysts suggest that the PS5 version may arrive three to twelve months after the initial Xbox and PC launch.
    4. Teaser Trailer Highlights: The teaser showcased iconic Japanese locations, including a view of Mount Fuji and elements like a garage with previous game license plates.
    5. Artistic Vision: The game’s art director emphasized the beauty of Japan’s landscapes and urban settings, promising an immersive experience for players.

    Community fans have been eagerly asking for a Forza Horizon game set in Japan, and there’s been a lot of talk about the series moving to this East Asian archipelago. Microsoft has officially announced that Forza Horizon 6 will take place in Japan, which was revealed during the Tokyo Game Show 2025. However, there’s a twist. Forza Horizon 6 will not be available on PlayStation 5 at launch, while it will be ready for PC and Xbox Series S|X.

    Staggered Launch Details

    In a recent post on Xbox Wire, a footnote indicated that Forza Horizon 6 will first be released on Xbox consoles and PC in 2026. Given the enthusiasm for this franchise across other platforms, Playground Games and Turn 10 Studios are also collaborating to release Forza Horizon 6 on PlayStation after the initial launch. In the meantime, players can add it to their wishlists on Xbox and Steam, and more updates about Forza Horizon 6 will be shared early next year.

    Currently, there is no specific date for when the PS5 version will come out. Analysts in the industry think that Xbox is taking a timed-exclusive route with Forza Horizon 6, which could mean that the game might launch on PlayStation anywhere from three to twelve months after its debut.

    Teaser Trailer Insights

    The teaser trailer for Forza Horizon 6 was unveiled during Xbox’s presentation at TGS 2025, showcasing a garage adorned with license plates from previous games. The setting shifted to Japanese hip-hop music as the camera zoomed in on a Japanese license plate, transitioning to a stunning view of Mount Fuji from the northern side of Lake Kawaguchi.

    The garage is likely situated in Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture, with the Kawaguchiko Ohashi Bridge visible in the background. However, it’s possible that some specific locations might not make it into the final version of the game, as the Horizon series is known for its fictionalized interpretations of real places.

    Artistic Vision

    Art director Don Arceta discussed the Japan-inspired world in the Xbox Wire post, saying, “Although we’re not sharing too much in terms of specifics at the moment, we’re thrilled to reveal to fans the true extent of the stunning beauty – both in nature and city settings – that Japan has to offer.”

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  • Hades 3 Not Guaranteed, Says Supergiant Games Director

    Hades 3 Not Guaranteed, Says Supergiant Games Director

    Key Takeaways

    1. Supergiant Games is focusing on one project at a time, with no active development on Hades 3 currently planned.
    2. Studio Director Amir Rao emphasizes that the game itself is the design document, relying on community feedback during development.
    3. Hades II has achieved significant success, with over 2 million copies sold during early access and a peak of 103,567 concurrent players.
    4. Supergiant Games plans to provide ongoing support for Hades II with updates and bug fixes but is unlikely to release expansions or downloadable content.
    5. Fans should expect a long wait for any announcements regarding Hades 3, as the studio prioritizes recovery after developing Hades II.

    Potential plans for Hades 3 were discussed in an interview shortly before Hades II transitioned from early access to its version 1.0 launch. Supergiant Games’ Studio Director Amir Rao was careful to manage enthusiasm, which might be a letdown for fans eager for news about the future of the series.

    Interview Insights

    In a 36-minute chat with roguelike content creator Haelian, Rao made it clear, “It’s not preordained. It’s not something we secretly know right now or anything like that.” Supergiant adopts a concentrated method for game creation, focusing on one project at a time without juggling multiple games. Rao elaborated, saying, “When we’re working on our games, we’re not talking about the next game.”

    Development Philosophy

    Rao also mentioned that “the game is the design document,” indicating that Supergiant prefers to build, test, and reflect on community feedback in real-time rather than following strict long-term plans. This methodology has evidently paid off for Supergiant Games.

    The evidence is clear in the achievements of Hades and its follow-up, which was first revealed at the Game Awards 2022, nearly two years after the original Hades exited early access in September 2020.

    Success of Hades II

    While there is no active development on Hades 3, as indicated by Rao, Hades II has already made a significant impact among fans. The game achieved an impressive peak of 103,567 concurrent players upon entering early access and has seen a strong resurgence with nearly 100,000 players after its official 1.0 launch on Steam.

    The sales figures confirm that Hades II is a major success, at least in terms of numbers. According to Alinea Analytics, Hades II sold 2 million copies throughout its 16-month early access phase, with 1.5 million sold in the first two months alone. To highlight its achievement, Hades II has brought in a remarkable $54.5 million in gross revenue at its price of $29.99.

    Looking Forward

    The original Hades also performed well, moving over 150,000 copies in the week before Hades II’s departure from early access. Going forward, it’s clear that Supergiant Games plans to continue providing post-launch support for Hades II, including updates and bug fixes, similar to what they did with the previous title. However, expansions or downloadable content seem improbable based on Supergiant’s past practices. Fans can expect a long wait for any announcement regarding Hades 3, as the studio takes time to recover from a lengthy development cycle.

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